MURFREESBORO - Circuit Court Judge Darrell Scarlett of the 16th Judicial District announced today that he is running for the seat to which Gov. Bill Haslam appointed him in 2018. The Tennessee General Assembly added a new Circuit Court Judge for Rutherford and Cannon counties in response to the counties' growing population.

"I've enjoyed serving the citizens of the 16th Judicial District as a lawyer for 30 years and wish to continue that service as Circuit Court Judge," Scarlett said.

Circuit Court hears all civil cases, such as business, real estate, estate, domestic relations, and personal injury - the same types of cases for which Scarlett represented clients while at Murfree, Cope & Moore (1988-2009) and Bennett & Scarlett (2009-2018). As Circuit Court Judge, Scarlett has a docket of 1,500-1,800 cases at any given time.

"My background has been extremely helpful. I had a broad practice, which really helped me transition to judge," Scarlett said. "I have the experience, knowledge and temperament to continue to fairly and impartially resolve cases presented to me."

Scarlett is a Rutherford and Cannon County Bar Association member and past president, Tennessee Judicial Conference member, Tennessee Judicial Conference Mini Judicial Academy graduate, and Boys and Girls Club of Rutherford County past president and board member.

Prior to being appointed as Circuit Court Judge, Scarlett tried numerous jury and bench trials in civil and criminal courts in Rutherford and surrounding counties; argued cases before the Tennessee Court of Appeals, Tennessee Court of Criminal Appeals, and administrative bodies; and served as special judge in General Sessions and Juvenile Courts in Rutherford and Cannon counties.

Scarlett earned his law degree from Samford University and his bachelor's degree from Tennessee Technological University.

He and his wife, Becky, reside in Murfreesboro. Scarlett has one grown daughter. His hobbies include bird hunting and golf.